[Fan Fiction] Mary Sue Stories

Hi All,

Sorry for the long delay. I am still in my business trip. But, Zola and I has been working on this story. Also, a special thanks to Pygmalion for her contributions, her introduction was a great twist.

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ACT I

The scene takes place at Paradigm-City AI Software Engineering Department.

Zola: ** Looks up and makes a sign of warding. ** Kay, what are you doing here?
Luis: Yeah, why aren't you in your coffin down in Q&R? It's daytime.
Kay: I've got a little "quality and reliability" issue on this ARA code. Tony around?
Zola & Luis: Nope.
Kay: ** In exasperation. ** No more than I expect. Look, Zola, you're up on this project, right? I only have a couple questions. C'mon, I'll buy you a cup of coffee.
Zola: ** Resigned. ** Yeah, all right, since you ask so nicely....

** Kay and Zola walk down to the lunchroom, pour their (free) coffee, and find two seats in the deserted room. Kay insists on sitting near the center. **

Kay: ** Quietly. ** Look, the real reason I brought you down here is Tony himself. He needs to trim his sails. ** She opens the printout as if to point out something in it. **
Zola: ** Tries to look puzzled. ** What do you mean by that?
Kay: ** Impatiently. ** You software guys should get out of your cubicles once in a while. He's been over at that Smith place in the Illegal Residence Sector. Our "lord and master" is taking way too much interest in him.
Zola: ** Nervous to hear about Alex Rosewater. ** Why would Rosewater worry about what some programmer is doing in his spare time?
Kay: ** Rolls eyes. ** You guys really are at the end of the gossip food chain! Rosewater is obsessed with that Roger Smith; don't know why, don't want to know why, but if I were Tony, I'd stay far, far away from anything Alex Rosewater was interested in.
Zola: ** Skeptically. ** Where'd you hear this?
Kay: ** Loftily. ** I have my sources. Look, in Q&R we have to keep our ear to the ground to keep up with project slip. Everyone figures they hand off perfect code that takes half an hour to read through --
Zola: ** Laughing. ** Ok, I have heard that. ** Cut off. **
Kay: ...but what we really have is some snake pit that could take a week before we can test it properly. So in order to arrange the computer time we'll need, we have to have realistic scheduling on when we'll have something to test. After all, we need to live up to our motto:
Kay (with pious expression) and Zola: ** Chorus. ** We're not happy until you're not!
Kay: ** Sincere. ** Anyway, that's what I wanted to tell him. Let him know, ok?
Zola: ** Puzzled. ** And why are you doing this? Out of the goodness of your heart?
Kay: Of course not!
** Zola looks at Kay. **
Kay: Well, maybe a little. He's one of the less-annoying software geeks. It'd be the pity of the world if he were to make a career-limiting move. Just tell him to keep an eye on the weather gauge.
Zola: ** Impishly. ** Shall I tell him you like him?
Kay: ** Flustered. ** Don't be daft! I like guys who are handy with hardware. ** Considers ** Of course, if he wanted to learn which end of a welding torch to hold, he could pass the word....
Zola: Sure. ** Stands up ** Thanks for the coffee.
Kay: ** Stands up too. ** My pleasure.

** An hour later. **

Tony: ** Walking into his cubicle and giving his co-workers a wave with his left hand, since his right arm is in a sling. ** Hi guys.
Luis: ** Waves. ** Hey, Tony. How’s life?
Tony: Cool. Looks like things are turning out right. You?
Zola: ** Head emerging from her cubicle. ** Hi Tony. I have a question about the ARA project.
Tony: ** Smiles. ** Sure, what do you need to know?
Zola: ** Looking nervous. ** Not, here.
Tony: ** Sensing something is wrong. ** Fine. How about the simulation room?
Zola: Good. How about in 30 minutes.
Tony: Great. See you there.

** In the Simulation Room about 30 minutes later. **

Tony: ** Walking in. ** Zola, what’s up?
Zola: I need to know something straight out. What’s the deal with you and Dorothy? Stop blushing and tell me the truth, this is serious!
Tony: ** Hunching down and looking miserable. ** I don't know. I could fall for her in a big way. She’s just…well, she’s amazing! I've never known anyone like her. The more time I spend with her, the more I like her, but I think that she really wants to be with Roger, and I promised her I would help her.
Zola: Well, I think you ought to know Big Brother is watching you. He is very interested in your after-hour activities, especially, the ones involving the Smith Mansion.
Tony: ** Surprised. ** Why on earth would he care? Who told you?
Zola: Does it matter? We are all worried about you. Is it worth flushing your career down the toilet? Maybe you'd better back off for a while and let things cool down. Think about it, won't you?
Tony: Thank you, Zola. I appreciate your telling me this. Be careful, I'd hate to think of you and Luis getting caught up in this. Maybe I should stop telling you what’s happening--the less you know, the better. I don't want to think your jobs might be on the line.
Zola: ** Hugs Tony. ** Don't worry. I think you should do what you always do--if you didn't, it would look really suspicious. Just…Tony? Maybe you should be looking at doing the right thing for yourself, and not worry about Dorothy and Roger so much. Promise me you'll at least think about it?
Tony: ** Smiling. ** Will do. We probably should get going; they'll be looking for us. You go first, I will follow in 5 minutes.
Zola: ** Laughing. ** Talk about suspicious! No, we go back together, just follow my lead.

** They are coming down the hall, talking. **

Zola: I really appreciate your clearing that up. When I first saw that e-mail, I thought you meant something totally different and I got mad.
Tony: I'm sorry. I should have realized you could take it two ways.
Zola: Well, I'm sorry for biting your head off, I should have just asked. Thanks for taking the… ** Her voice trails off as they see Angel. **
Angel: ** Standing at Tony’s desk. ** Good afternoon, Mr. Perez.
Tony: ** Shocked that Zola’s prediction is coming true so fast. ** Hello, Ms. Jenkins, How are you on this fine morning. ** Nervously. ** The ARA is still on schedule and there are only a few bugs to take care of.
Angel: ** Uninterested. ** That’s great. Actually, I am here to give you this. ** She hands Tony an envelope. ** The President would like you to join him for lunch.
Tony: ** Puzzled. ** The CEO? Why would he…
Angel: ** Interrupting rudely. ** The President of Paradigm Corporation. Alex Rosewater.
Tony: ** Glances at Zola, shocked. ** Of course, I would be delighted to join him. Is it a formal affair?
Angel: ** Dry laugh. ** You don't need a black suit, if that’s what you’re asking.
Tony: ** Smiling, hiding his contempt for her. ** I see. Will you be attending?
Angel: ** Sensing his sarcasm. ** No, I have prior engagements. Thank you. ** She leaves, headed towards the elevator. **
Zola: ** The minute she’s out of sight, in a low voice. ** I always loathed her.
Luis: ** Also speaking quietly. ** No argument there, Zola. She’s a snake in silk.
Tony: ** Smiling, hiding his fear. ** Guys, I will handle this matter. It’s probably totally unrelated to my dating Dorothy. Just a coincidence.
Zola and Luis: ** In unison. ** Good luck!
Tony:** Allowing a bit of his worry to show. ** Thanks, I have a feeling I am going to need it.

** Cut to Alex Rosewater’s personal dining area. **

Alex: ** Standing by his chair and extending his hand. ** Mr. Perez, it is an honor to finally meet you.
Tony: ** Nervous, mimics him. ** Mr. President, the honor is all mine. ** Shakes Alex’s hand. **
Alex: Please, sit down.
Tony: ** Seeing Alan holding Tony’s seat. ** Thank you. ** Walks towards his chair and sits down. **
Alan: ** In a creepy tone, pushing Tony’s chair in. ** Mr. Perez, would you like to something to drink? ** Giggles. **
Tony: ** Creeped out. ** Water would be fine.
Alex: ** Interrupting. ** Tell me, Tony--can I call you Tony?
Tony: Of course.
Alex: You can call me Alex. Anyway, I wanted to meet you.
Tony: ** Perplexed. ** Really, why?
Alex: Well, you did win the Programmers Award three years in a row.
Tony: ** Sensing that he’s lying. ** Oh, I see. Does every award winning developer get such an honor?
Alex: Only those that interest me.
Alan: ** Serving Tony. ** I hope you like steak.
Tony: ** Staring at his plate. ** Steak? You mean from a cow? I didn't know that they existed here.
Alex: ** Smiling, but perplexed by Tony’s response. ** They do for us.
Alan: ** Serving Alex, while giggling. ** Medium rare, just like you like it.
Tony: ** Trying to polite in spite of Alan’s weirdness ** Thank you.
Alex: ** Lifting his glass. ** Let’s have a toast. To the success of Paradigm corporation!
Tony: ** Lifts his glass, then drinks from it. ** To Paradigm.
Alan: Would you like another refill?
Tony: No, thank you.
Alex: I foresee a long, profitable career for you here. However, there is one thing I'd like to ask you.
Tony: What is that?
Alan: ** Giggles. **
Alex: I'm wondering why you need a negotiator?
Tony: ** Pretending to have missed what Alex said. ** Excuse me?
Alex: Well, it has been brought to my attention that you have been in the Illegal Residence Sector lately. And, that you have been visiting Roger Smith. So, what does an elite software engineer need from a negotiator?
Tony: It’s a private matter.
Alan: ** Giggles. **
Alex: You do understand that you are an employee of Paradigm AI Software
Corporation, which is a subsidiary of Paradigm Corporation…
Tony: ** Staring at Alex. ** I didn't think that the personal life of a mere developer was that important to you.
Alex: ** Getting frustrated. ** Mr. Perez, do you like your job?
Tony: Yes, of course.
Alex: Well, how would you like to be a project manager, or maybe a lead architect?
Tony: ** Thinks about it for a moment. ** That would be nice, but programming is what I like best.
Alex: ** Standing up. ** Tony, I really must insist. What is your business with Roger Smith?
Tony ** Noticing Alan has come up behind him. ** I have no business with Roger Smith at all.
Alex: ** Frowning. ** What do you mean?
Tony: ** Really nervous now. ** I don't go to there to see him at all. I am friends with Dorothy Wayneright.
Alex: I see. ** Gives an almost an imperceptible nod and Alan moves away from Tony. ** Here is my business card. If you see anything I might find interesting, you will find it worth your while to give me a call.
Tony: ** Rising from his chair. ** I see. Thank you very much for the meal.
Alan: ** Escorting Tony to the door and whispering loudly. ** I too like to play with dolls. Send her my regards. ** Giggles. **
Tony: ** Walks away, without looking at Alan. ** You may need to seek professional help for that.

** Back at the office. **

Zola: What happened?
Luis: What did Big Brother say?
Tony: ** Looking down at the floor. ** Thanks for the warning, Zola. I think he believed me when I said I was only there for Dorothy. It doesn't really matter. ** Looks at his watch and smiles. ** Five more hours to my date with Dorothy.
Luis: You’re crazy, man. Is she worth losing a paying gig?
Tony: ** Looking thoughtful. ** I guess that’s something I have to discuss with her… ** He sits down at his desk and starts working. **

*frothing at mouth... twitching...*

must.. have... more.... so... spiffy...

Tony's got some good friends. Hope he appreciates them!

Pygmalion

P.S. If this were rewritten in standard fiction format, I think it would be a worthwhile addition to the fanfiction section. Hint-hint, nudge-nudge, say no more.

Watch your back, Tony! Alan's got a dentist drill from hell back there!

Well guys, yet another installment of this story. Thank Zola for her awesome editing skills and being a great co-author.

At Paradigm-City AI Software Engineering Department.

Tony: ** Walking into his cubicle with his usual wave for his coworkers. He is smiling brightly and carrying an empty box in his hand. **
Luis: Hi Tony. What's up with the box?
Zola: ** Head emerging from her cubicle. ** Yeah, are you going on an extended vacation, or something?
** Luis and Zola both giggle, but stop when they notice that Tony isn't responding. **
Zola: ** Perplexed. ** What's wrong?
Luis: Yeah, what happened last night?
Tony: ** Looking at Luis and Zola. ** Man, ain't life wonderful. **
Placing some of his personal belongings in the box. ** Angel canned me last night.
Zola: ** Shocked. ** What? She fired Mister Company-Man! What happened?
Luis: ** Equally shocked. ** Oh no, what about the project?
Tony: ** Looking at his awards on the wall for a moment then packing them into the box. ** To hell with the project! Actually, Angel and Paradigm Corporation can kiss my...
Zola: ** Interrupting. ** What about making a living? Did you think about that? What are you going to do?
Luis: ** Intrigued. ** Does this have anything to do with you and Dorothy?
Tony: ** Stops what he's doing and looks at them. ** You really want to know? ** They both nod. He keeps on packing but starts to talk. ** Fine. It all started when I went to pick up Dorothy last night for our date...

** Cut to the Smith Mansion's Balcony. Roger is sitting on a seat, staring at the skyline. **

Roger: Norman, can you prepare two more places for dinner?
Norman: Yes, sir. May I ask who is joining you tonight?
Roger: ** Shrugs. ** Angel will be coming over and I assume Dorothy will be inviting Tony.
Norman: Very good, sir. ** Turns to go into the house. **
Roger: Oh, one more thing, Norman. ** Norman stops but doesn't turn around. ** Don't let Dorothy know about my plans.
Norman: ** Looking down and shaking his head in disgust but keeping his thoughts to himself. ** Very well, Master Roger.

** A few hours later. Roger is still sitting on the balcony. Dorothy is standing on the railing. **

Norman: ** Announcing. ** Master Roger, Miss Angel has arrived.
Dorothy: ** Calmly. ** I was not aware that you were expecting company.
Roger: ** Sarcastically. ** Well, I can have guests too. Or do you disapprove?
Dorothy: ** Unemotionally. ** You may invite whomever you like. It isn't a matter of approval or disapproval. My objection is to your assumption that you have a right to tell me what to do.
Roger: ** Annoyed. ** I see.
Angel: ** Walks onto the balcony. ** Hello Roger.
Roger: ** Giving Angel a warm hug. ** You made it. ** Checking her out. **
You look good!
Dorothy: ** Sighing in a very low tone. ** If you like that kind of thing
**
Angel: ** Annoyed that she didn't hear. ** Excuse me, Dorothy. Did you say something?
Dorothy: ** Smiling sweetly. ** I was a little surprised to see you, that's all.
Angel: ** With a contemptuous smile. ** I wouldn't miss dinner with Roger for anything. So, how are you and your new boyfriend getting along? Tommy Pez, I believe his name was?
Roger: ** Trying not to smirk and failing miserably. **
Dorothy: It's Tony Perez. Can't you remember your own employees’ names?
Roger: ** Glaring at Dorothy. ** That was uncalled for!
Dorothy: Perhaps it was. However, Roger, it was rather insulting to Tony that she could not remember his name considering he's one of their top programmers. He has won many awards for his work, he's very good at what he does.
Norman: ** From the glass doors. ** Miss Dorothy, Mr. Perez has arrived.
Dorothy: ** Smiling as he comes in. ** Thank you, Norman. Tony, you've been invited to dinner.
Tony: Oh, nice. Norman is a great cook.
Angel: ** Unable to resist being catty. ** You're right, Dorothy. I should have remembered, I'm just terrible with names. Our top coder! Talk about a match made in heaven--you're a robot and he's a programmer! I bet you make beautiful software together.
Tony: ** Noticing Dorothy's expression but trying to keep things pleasant. Pretending to laugh. ** You know, I never thought of it that way! You might be on to something.
Angel: ** Giving an equally fake laugh. ** Well, they say like attracts like!
Roger: ** Starting to get a clue. ** Well, dinner should just about be ready! Shall we?

** They all go down to the dining room and Norman serves the food. **

Angel: ** Looking at Dorothy taking a bite. ** Oh, how cute. She's pretending to eat. ** Looking at Tony. ** You're a better coder than I thought. Bravo, great trick!
Dorothy: He's promised to program me to spit, too. ** Tony quickly turns a laugh into a cough. **
Roger: ** Hastily trying to change the subject. ** How do you like the fish? It's excellent, isn't it?
Angel: ** Falsely charming. ** Norman has outdone himself. What do you think, Dorothy?
Dorothy: ** Pleasantly. ** It's very good. Norman is a wonderful cook.
Angel: Yes, I am sure that your sensors can pick up its composition marvelously.
Dorothy: Of course they can. I can sense many things, Angel. The current temperature is 20C, the wind velocity is 5 Km due east, the fish is perfectly done, flaky but not rubbery, and did you know the roots of your hair aren't the same color as the ends?
Angel: ** Trying to think of a comeback. ** At least I can grow hair.
Roger: Dorothy, that's quite enough.
Angel: No, Roger, it was my fault. Forgive me. Friends, Dorothy?
Dorothy: No need for apologies. I haven't found you the least bit insulting. Were you trying to be?
Roger: Dorothy! Angel is a guest here and that was uncalled for.
Dorothy: I don't believe that I was being rude. But, if I was, I apologize.
Tony: ** Really getting annoyed. ** No Dorothy, don't apologize. It's not wrong to defend yourself. If anyone should apologize, it's Roger.
Roger: Me? Why me?
Tony: It's not right to correct Dorothy in front of everyone like that. Do you like my doing the same to you? ** Norman makes a noise that sounds suspiciously like a chuckle and covers it with a little cough. **
Roger: ** Realizing Tony has a point and trying to change the subject. ** Norman, can we have the after dinner wine, please?"
Norman: Yes, sir. ** Norman pours some wine into each person's glass. **
Roger: Thank you, Norman. ** He raises his glass. ** What should we toast
to?
Angel: To Tony and Dorothy, may their relationship blossom and may they make many beautiful programs together.
Tony: ** Rolling eyes. ** That's getting a little old, Angel.
Angel: It was only a joke.
Roger: You see, she's only kidding.
Tony: ** Clearly angry. ** I'm not laughing. Dorothy, are you laughing?
Angel: I'm sorry. I don't know what's gotten into me tonight.
Tony: ** Visibly getting hold of his temper. ** Well, dinner was wonderful, but if we're going to catch that movie, we should get going.
Dorothy: ** Seems to be relieved. ** Yes, the show starts in 30 minutes, 15 seconds.
Angel: ** Whispers to herself. ** She makes a fine watch.
Roger: ** Trying to ignore Angel’s comment. ** Have a nice time you guys.
Dorothy: We will. ** Tony and Dorothy exiting the room. **
Tony: ** Ignoring Roger. ** Norman, thank you for dinner. It was excellent as usual.
Norman: ** Contains his smile and nods his head. ** Thank you, sir. Enjoy your evening.

Act II

** Tony and Dorothy are taking a walk after the movie. **

Tony: He’s really starting to get nervous if he’s inviting Angel over!
Dorothy: Are you sure? I am starting to wonder if I have been misreading him all along.
Tony: I don't think so.
Dorothy: The facts suggest otherwise. You have said that he hasn't been able to declare his intentions because he is shy. According to my observations, you are shy too, but that hasn't stopped you at all.
Tony: It’s a different situation. I wanted to get to know you, become friends with you. The other stuff just sort of...happened.
Dorothy: You didn't like it?
Tony: ** Sensing he is in grave danger. ** I didn't say that!
Dorothy: ** Thoughtfully. ** You acted as though you liked it.
Tony: ** Panicking. ** Well of course I did. Dorothy, you know I think you’re beautiful.
Dorothy: ** Tears starting to come to her eyes. ** Roger never says anything like that.
Tony: ** Puts his arm around her. ** He’s not very good at that kind of thing. That doesn't mean he doesn't care about you.
Dorothy: ** Crying in earnest. ** You told me you aren't very good at that kind of thing either. But you somehow manage.

** They are going by a small park. Tony leads Dorothy over to one of the benches and sits down with her. **

Tony: ** Helplessly. ** Don't cry, Dorothy. You know I hate seeing you upset.
Dorothy: You act more like you love me than he does.
Tony: ** Nervously. ** I'm sure he really does love you.
Dorothy: But if he can't show me, what difference does it make? It’s the same as if he didn't.
Tony: Well, that’s why we came up with our little plan, isn't it? To get him to realize he'd better speak up?
Dorothy: ** Calming down a little. ** The longer it goes, Tony, the more I think I'd be better off just forgetting about it.
Tony: ** Shocked. ** You can't mean that!
Dorothy: Why would I say it if I didn't mean it?
Tony: You’re just upset. You'll probably think differently when he starts to come around.
Dorothy: ** Stubbornly. ** I don't know if I want to wait that long. ** Looks at Tony. ** Will you stay tonight?
Tony: ** Says nothing for a minute or two. ** I don't want you to take this wrong, but… I can't. I'm sorry.
Dorothy: ** Starts to cry again. ** You don't want me either.
Tony: ** Miserably. ** It’s not that at all. I want you too much. ** Putting his hand on her chin and tilting her face up so she is looking directly into his eyes. ** After… after I spent the night, I realized something. I'm falling for you and I can't let it happen.
Dorothy: ** Surprised. ** What do you mean?
Tony: ** Awkwardly. ** I mean that if I let myself fall in love with you, I'm not going to want to let you go, ever. If I stay with you again… ** Turning red. ** I'm just not the type of guy who can… be with someone and have it not mean anything.
Dorothy: ** Kisses Tony. ** I know, that’s why I…
Tony: ** Interrupting. ** Don't say it, Dorothy. Please. Not unless you mean it for keeps. ** She starts to say something else but changes her mind and starts kissing him again. **

** Several hours later, we see Angel and Roger in the Balcony area. By them is an empty bottle of Brandy. **

Angel: ** A bit buzzed. ** Roger, you know that it’s better this way, right?
Roger: ** Tipsy, but still rational. ** Angel, I'd rather not talk about it right now.
Angel: ** Flirtatiously. ** Well, what would you like to talk about? ** She moves a little closer, putting her hand on his arm. **
Roger: I'd like to know a little bit more about you. What do you like to do for fun? It seems like every time we get together, there’s some kind of crisis.
Angel: ** Pleased at his interest. ** Well, I like to go dancing.
Roger: Really? What kind of dancing?
Angel: Well, regular dancing is fun, but slow dancing is the best. ** She starts humming a tune and puts her arms around Roger and starts dancing him around the balcony. **
Roger: ** Having a good time in spite of himself ** Well, next time I'll ask Norman to set up the record player.
Angel: I'd like that. ** She suddenly stops and looks up at Roger, clearly expecting him to kiss her. **
Roger: Do I get to choose the next song?
Angel: You’re not getting away with it this time, Roger Smith! ** She pulls his head down and kisses him. **
Roger: ** Breaking away for a second. ** Angel…
Angel: ** Beginning to get angry. ** No more games, Roger.
Roger: It’s not a…
Norman: ** Clearing his throat. ** Master Roger, Miss Dorothy and Mr. Perez have returned. Would you like me to bring up a nightcap? ** Tony and Dorothy come out to the balcony. **
Roger: ** Hiding his delight at their return bailing him out. ** Yes, thank you, Norman. ** Turning to Dorothy and Tony. ** How was the movie?
Dorothy: ** Unemotionally. ** It was terrible. The cast had no talent, the action scenes were bland and the story was predictable.
Roger: ** Smirking. ** Too bad. Maybe you should have stayed here with us.
Dorothy: If it weren't for Tony’s company and the walk after, I would say that tonight was a total failure.
Angel: ** Staring at Tony, who has lipstick on his collar. ** Looks like you had a good time afterwards.
Tony: ** Realizing Angel has had a bit too much to drink. ** Well, it was nice. Dorothy and I...
Angel: ** Laughing. ** Worked on your latest flowchart?
Dorothy: ** Calmly. ** It seems that you need to learn more effective jokes. I'm afraid your sense of humor escapes me.
Roger: ** Trying to keep things calm. ** Norman is bringing up a nightcap.
Dorothy: Thank you, but I don't want anything.
Tony: Me either, thanks. I have to drive home soon.
Angel: ** Sarcastically. ** How cute. I just adore how they agree on everything. ** Looking at Roger. ** I told you they made a great couple
Roger: ** Unable to mask his annoyance. ** Angel, please.
Angel: ** Leaning on the railing for support. ** Roger, I'm happy for them! ** Norman returns with a tray of drinks, handing one to Angel with a small smile. **
Norman: ** Handing mugs to both Dorothy and Tony. ** Spiced apple cider, no alcohol in yours.
Angel: Thank you, Norman. ** Taking a gulp from her drink. ** So, where was I?
Dorothy: ** Helpfully. ** You were saying you were happy for us.
Angel: I knew you could serve a useful purpose, Dorothy! But I am happy for you. You've found someone as cold and calculating as you are.
Roger: Angel!
Angel: Roger, you need a real woman to make you happy! I never understood your attraction to that…that mechanical doll.
Tony: ** Awkwardly. ** I think she’s had too much to drink. One of us ought to drive her home.
Roger: Angel, I think you've said enough. Come on, I'll give you a ride.
Angel: I'm not finished yet! Roger Smith, I should still be angry with you after the way you ignored me! ** She drains her glass. ** I couldn't believe you'd rather be with that…that bucket of bolts instead of me!
Tony: Angel, you are way out of line!
Roger: ** Looking at Tony. ** Speaking of out of line, how was your lunch with Alex?
Tony: ** Glaring at Roger. ** Do you ever think of anyone other than yourself? Did it ever occur to you that Angel might be hurting Dorothy’s feelings? No? Well, she is, and when I try to put a stop to it, you act like I've done something wrong and have the nerve to ask for a descriptive account of my meeting with Alex! Well, if you must know right this instant, I didn't tell him anything because there was nothing to tell. I'm here for Dorothy and if you aren't man enough to defend her, well, I am. ** Stands up. **
Dorothy: Please, Tony. I'm not taking this seriously. Angel is obviously intoxicated.
Tony: ** Turns to her. ** Come on, Dorothy. There’s no need for you to put up with this.
Angel: ** Laughing. ** Put up with what? Getting her feelings hurt? What feelings could she possibly have? It’s all sensors and circuits.
Roger: Angel, you are not helping matters.
Angel: ** Looking at Dorothy. ** Go ahead, go with Tony. I'll take good care of Roger, don't you worry.
Tony: ** Speaking softly to Dorothy. ** You can stay with me for now and we'll find you a nice place of your own. You don't have to work here any more.
Roger: ** Annoyed. ** What? Dorothy isn't going anywhere. She was working for me to pay off a debt.
Tony: Fine, how much does she owe?
Dorothy: Two hundred and forty-three dollars and eighty cents when you add in this week’s room and board.
Tony: ** Pulls his checkbook out of his back pocket and starts writing. ** I'll round it up to two hundred and fifty. ** Tears the check out and slaps it on the table. ** There you are, Dorothy. Free and clear. Let’s go.
Roger: ** Blocking the doorway, absolutely furious. ** How dare you come into my house and bark orders at me? If you want to take her, you're going to have to go through me!
Tony: ** Closing his fist. ** I was hoping you'd say that. ** Throws a punch, hitting Roger in the right eye. **
Roger: ** Tackles Tony down to the floor. ** You think you can...
Angel: ** Stands up from her chair. ** Hit him, Roger!
Dorothy: ** Crying. ** Stop it. ** She pushes Angel out of her way. ** Stop it! Please!
Tony: ** Trying to punch Roger again. ** You son-of-a...
Roger: ** Still trying to pin Tony down. ** Bastard!
Dorothy: ** Drags Roger off of Tony. ** Both of you, stop it!
Angel: ** Picking herself up. ** Get away from Roger, you…you…wind-up toy!
Tony: ** Gets up and looks Angel in the eye. ** Don't you talk about Dorothy that way. If you were half the woman she was... ** Pauses. ** Maybe you'd get somewhere.
Angel: Mr. Perez, don't bother showing up for work tomorrow! You’re fired!
Tony: Too late! I quit! ** He holds his hand out to Dorothy. ** Shall we, my lady?
Dorothy: ** Still upset but taking Tony’s hand. ** Please.
Roger: ** Dusting himself off. ** Dorothy, don't go! We'll get this all worked out in the morning, I promise.
Angel: ** Rushing toward Roger. ** Let them go. I'll get some ice for your eye.
Roger: ** Angry. ** Get away from me! You have done enough already!
Angel: ** Sarcastic. ** You don't mean that you actually care if that insufferable android leaves? She’s with Tony, you’re with me. That’s the way it should be.
Roger: ** Staring at her. ** Norman, please take Angel home!
Angel: ** Miffed ** Fine, I hope you realize what you are missing.
Roger: ** Reaching for a napkin on the table. ** I do, believe me. ** He turns to say something to Dorothy and Tony and realize they have left while he was dealing with Angel, who is being marched to the elevator by Norman. He looks out over the rail just in time to see Tony’s car going down the street. ** Dorothy!
Norman: ** Stopping Roger from going after them. ** I think you have done enough damage for one night. I suggest you put some ice on that while I take Miss Angel home.
Roger: ** Trying to touch his swollen eye. ** I can't just let her go!
Norman: Then you should have said something sooner. If you go after her now it will just make things worse. She has made her decision.
Roger: ** Shocked. ** What are you talking about?
Norman: ** Trying to mask his anger. ** You have behaved like an overgrown spoiled child. Dorothy loved you and you acted like it didn't matter.
Roger: But...But...
Norman: You let Angel insult her. Then, when her best friend tried to stand up for her, you accused him of using her so he could spy on you for Alex Rosewater. As for fighting with him…
Roger: ** Sulking. ** So what am I supposed to do now?
Norman: There is nothing left to do but wish her happiness in her choice. ** He turns his back on Roger and escorts Angel to the Griffon. **

** At Tony’s house, he and Dorothy are sitting on his bed getting ready to go to sleep. **

Tony: Dorothy, I'm sorry it turned out like this, but I couldn't stand the way he was treating you any more.
Dorothy: It’s not your fault. Norman has been telling me I shouldn't let Roger get away with acting like that for months.
Tony: ** Shocked. ** Really?
Dorothy: Yes. He was happy when I met you. He said I deserved to be treated like a lady and he could see that you would do that.
Tony: Well, maybe we can go talk to Roger tomorrow. Now that you’re not working for him any more, hopefully he will change his ways for the better.
Dorothy: I have no intention of talking to Roger.
Tony: What do you mean?
Dorothy: Exactly what I said. I am not going to go and talk to him. ** She puts her arms around him and kisses him. **
Tony: ** Breaking away. ** I thought we had come to an understanding about this kind of thing.
Dorothy: We have. I love you, Tony.
Tony: ** Utterly astonished. ** Did you just say what I think you said?
Dorothy: ** Smiles. ** Do you want me to say it again?
Tony: ** Looks at her, disbelieving. ** Please.
Dorothy: I love you, Tony ** His whole face lights up and he puts his arms around her as she starts kissing him again. **

** Cut back to the office. **

Zola: ** Genuinely surprised. ** Wow! I can't believe that you quit.
Luis: Yeah, what are you going to do now?
Tony: Actually, I always wanted to start my own business. I was starting to feel like I was drowning here anyway.
Luis: ** Angry. ** Well dude, if you go, I go. ** Goes to pack his stuff. **
Zola: ** Nervous. ** You know Tony, I would join you, but I have a family to think about.
Tony: ** Understanding. ** Don't worry about it, Zola. Besides, I have one request for you, and you can't fulfill it if you aren't here.
Zola: Whatever you want, you can have.
Tony: ** Writes down an address. ** If Norman or Roger shows up, give him this.
Zola: ** Angry. ** Tony, you won the girl! To hell with Roger Smith.
Tony: ** Pleading. ** Please, promise you'll do this for me.
Zola: ** Grudgingly. ** All right.
Angel: ** Suddenly appears. ** Zola, don't you have work to do?
Zola: ** Sarcastic. ** Yes, SIR!
Angel: ** Staring at Tony. ** Well, code-boy. You are never going to work in this town again.
Tony: ** Laughing. ** You think that you won? Is that it? If so, you have another thing coming.
Angel: Well, I hope that you and your beloved find it comfortable out on the street.
Tony: ** Smiling. ** Angel, you are so clueless it's comical.
Luis: ** Interrupting and coming between Angel and Tony. ** Out of my way! I've got to get my stuff packed. Oh, and by the way, I quit!
Angel: Fine! Zola will do the work for both of you. ** Looking at her. ** Don't you stare at me! I'm sure you have plenty to do!
Zola: ** Mumbling something obscene. ** Yes sir.

** Angel storms out. **

Zola: ** Looking at Tony and Luis. ** I'm going to find myself something else as soon as possible.
Tony: Just give Roger or Norman that address before you do. ** Tony and Zola hug. **
Zola: Good luck, guys. And give Dorothy my regards. You’re a lucky man, Tony.
Tony: I know I am. Thanks! ** He helps Luis put the last few things in the box and they leave for the last time. **

Man...somebody check Roger's Louse-dial...I think someone turned it all the way up...

*can't wait for more*

I feel like I tossed in a smoke cracker and an M80 went off.

Cool, Tony!

Pygmalion

This is the final installment of the "A Stroll with Dorothy" series. Thank you Zola (Co-Author and Editor) and Pygmalion (Contributor). I hope you enjoy it.

---

At Paradigm-City AI Software Engineering Department.

Falcon7: ** Walking towards Zola’s cubicle. Gives her a kiss and sits down on a chair besides her. ** Hi honey.
Zola: ** Staring at her computer monitor. ** Hi baby. I am almost done.
Falcon7: ** Trying to make conversation. ** It’s strange, isn't it? It sure seems empty around here!
Zola: Yeah, Tony and Luis quit last week. It’s been hell on earth ever since.
Falcon7: So what are they doing now?
Zola: They started their own software security business.
Falcon7: ** Surprised. ** Really? Is it doing well?
Zola: Yes, I heard that Dorothy and Tony are doing most of the development and Luis handles sales and pitches in on the programming when they need him.
Falcon7: ** A little annoyed. ** So, why did they leave you here? That wasn't very considerate of them.
Zola: ** Smiling. ** Well, actually, they have a job waiting for me, they have more business than they can handle. It’s just that Tony asked me to wait for somebody.
Falcon7: Who?
Roger: ** Suddenly appears. ** Hello… ** Reads the nameplate on the cubicle wall. ** Zola, is it? My name is Roger Smith.
Zola: ** Looking at Falcon7 ** Well, speak of the devil! It’s about time you showed up, I have been waiting for you.
Falcon7: Is that the jerk?
Zola: ** Acting like Roger was not there. ** Yup. This is the genius that got Tony fired.
Roger: What? No, it was a terrible misunderstanding. I'd like to try to make it right.
Falcon7: ** Staring at Roger. ** Do you want me to take care of this, honey?
Zola: ** Smiling. ** No, we’re all set. ** Looking at Roger. ** So now that you have finally showed up, what do you expect me to be able to do for you?
Roger: ** Nervously looking at the floor. ** I was hoping you would tell me how to get in touch with Tony
Norman: ** Joins Roger and Zola. ** I am unable to find Angel anywhere, sir.
Zola: ** Laughing. ** That skunk! She left two days ago. She moved higher up the Paradigm ladder. ** Looking at Norman. ** So you are Norman Burg? It’s nice to meet you, Tony has spoken highly of you. ** Shakes his hand. **
Falcon7: ** Also offers his hand. ** Would you like to join us for lunch?
Norman: Well, thank you but...
Roger: You can go ahead if you want to, Norman. In fact, why don't you take the rest of the day off? This is something I really need to do alone.
Norman: Very good, sir. Please give Miss Dorothy my regards. ** Looking at Zola and Falcon7. ** I would be pleased to join you.
Zola: That’s great. ** Reaches into her purse and pulls out a card and hands it to Roger. ** You will find Tony here.
Roger: ** Giving a nervous sigh. ** Thank you, Zola. I do appreciate it. ** Starts to walk away. **
Zola: ** Holds up her hand ** Wait just a second. I have something to say to you, Mr. Negotiator. Consider it payment for that address. ** He pauses, but won't meet her eyes. ** You, Roger Smith, are a louse and that’s all there is to it. Dorothy is a great girl and you don't deserve her.
Roger: Zola, I know what I am. Try to understand that...
Zola: ** Interrupting. ** I don't want to hear it! What I want is your promise that you won't try to guilt her into coming back. Tony is a wonderful guy and he'll treat her right. If you really love her, you’ll let her go.
Roger: I don't know if I can. ** Walking away without looking back. **
Zola: Well, at least he was honest about it. Lets go, guys. I'm starving!
Falcon7: Feel like Chinese?
Norman: That sounds good.
Zola: Norman, don't let me forget to give you Tony and Dorothy’s phone number before you go home. She told me to send you her love and tell you that she’s happy. ** The three of them leave **

** Cut to the outside of Paradigm Corporation’s AI building. Roger is walking towards the Griffon and sees Angel leaning against the driver’s side door.

Roger: ** Making it a point not to look at her. ** I don't have time for this.
Angel: ** Pleading. ** Just hear me out, Mr. Negotiator.
Roger: ** Stops right in front of her. ** What is it, Angel? I need to be somewhere.
Angel: I don't know what it is about you that brings out the worst in me, but I really like you, Roger, and I think somewhere under that louse exterior, you like me, too.
Roger: ** Sarcastic Laugh. ** Angel, you don't get it, do you? I don't care for you in that way. I tried to get Dorothy jealous by inviting you to dinner and it blew up in my face.
Angel: ** Somber. ** I may have been drunk, but you didn't kiss me like you don't care for me in that way.
Roger: ** embarrassed ** I'd just as soon forget the entire unfortunate evening.
Angel: But you won't. Don't lie to either of us, Roger Smith. If they had shown up a little bit later, they might have seen a lot more than you want to admit.
Roger:** angry ** You are contemptuous. If you really think I'm like that, then you don't know me at all.
Angel: ** Genuinely apologetic. ** I am sorry. But if things don't go the way you want them to, think about it. Maybe… maybe we can just start from the beginning as if we were strangers.
Roger: ** Sensing her repentance, he hugs her. ** Angel, I always thought you were a good person, you just have a way of landing in bad situations.
Angel: ** Pulling herself away, with tears streaming down her cheeks. ** Well, Roger Smith, you know what you have to do. I hope that you and Dorothy work it out and live happily ever after.
Roger: ** Getting into his car. ** Thank you, Angel. I appreciate it.

** Roger can be seen driving recklessly through the streets. He sees the building with the address that Zola gave him, pulls the hand brake and spins the Griffon perfectly into a parking spot. **

Roger: ** Surprised. ** It worked! ** Smiles as he enters the building. He looks at the card. ** Suite 525.
Security Guard: Suite 525?
Roger: ** Startled because he hadn't noticed the guard. ** Yes, do you know where it is?
Security Guard: Fifth floor. Take the elevator, turn left and go all the way down the hall.

** Roger follows the directions and arrives in front of a glass door with a wood frame. It has a sign on it reading “DLT Software Inc” Holding his breath, he opens the door and walks in. **

Luis: ** Noticing the man in a black suit. ** Good afternoon, may I help you with something?
Roger: Yes, is R. Dorothy Wayneright in?
Luis: Sorry, she’s not. Is there anything I can help you with?
Roger: Is Tony Perez in?
Luis: ** Grins. ** Why yes, he is. Do you have an appointment?
Roger: Well, no. I don't. I need to talk to him, though.
Luis: Well, if you need security software, I can help you.
Roger: No, I am not here to buy anything. It is personal.
Luis: ** Narrowing his eyes. ** Let me guess, you must be the infamous Roger Smith.
Roger: Yes, I am. You heard of me?
Luis: Yeah, you’re that jerk that treated Tony and Dorothy so badly.
Roger: ** Lowering his head. ** I know.
Luis: ** Pressing the intercom button. ** He’s here.
Tony’s voice: Send him in.
Luis: He is in the right-hand office.
Roger: ** Walking into Tony’s office hesitantly. ** Hello, Tony.
Tony: Close the door behind you. ** Pauses until Roger closes the door. ** Good afternoon, Mr. Negotiator. How may I help you? ** Pointing at the coffee machine. ** Coffee?
Roger: ** Walking towards the coffee machine. ** Yes, please.
Tony: ** Cuts him off. ** Sit down, I'll get that for you.
Roger: I came here to apologize to you and speak to Dorothy if she'll see me.
Dorothy: ** Walks into the office with a laptop in her hands.** I see you, Roger Smith.
Roger: ** Looking at Dorothy with joy in his eyes. ** Dorothy, I missed you. ** Starts to approach her. **
Dorothy: ** Unemotional. ** Roger, what is it? What do you want?
Roger: ** Sensing Dorothy’s apathy. ** Dorothy, I need to tell you something. ** Looking at Tony. ** I need to tell you both.
Dorothy: Go right ahead. You are free to say whatever you want.
Roger: ** Takes a nervous sip of his coffee. ** I would like to apologize to you and Tony. I came to realize that I was cruel to you, Dorothy. I treated you like an object, not a person that I...
Dorothy: Go on...
Roger: ** Turning crimson ** Not like a person that I love! .
Dorothy: Roger, I can never work for you again.
Roger: I know. I accept that. ** Lowers his head. ** What I was hoping was that you would give me another chance.
Dorothy: ** Smiling. ** Of course. I would very much like to be friends with you, Roger. In fact, Tony and I would like to invite you to our wedding.
Roger: ** Stunned ** You’re getting married?
Dorothy: Yes, in June. Do you think Norman will be willing to give me away since my father is gone?
Roger: ** Disbelieving ** I thought the good guy was supposed to get the girl…
Dorothy: He did!
Tony: ** Grabs Dorothy by the hand. ** Come on, it’s past lunchtime already! Thanks for coming by, Roger. We'll send you an invitation.
Dorothy: ** Smiling. ** I'd appreciate it if you would talk to Norman about it. I hope we see you soon! ** She and Tony leave Roger standing there alone in the office.
Roger: ** Completely shocked. ** Wait, it’s not supposed to end this way!

** Cut to a big corporate office. Tony is standing there chatting with a couple of co-workers **

Tony: ** Smiling. ** That’s it.
Co-worker 1: That’s a good story. But you went overboard.
Co-worker 2: Yeah, doesn't Roger get Dorothy in the end? I mean, have you paid any attention to the show?
Tony: Well, yeah. Big O is just a T.V. show, but... ** Pauses. ** You mean that... You thought I was telling a story.

** Co-workers laughing. **

Co-worker 1: Well, what else do you call it?
Co-worker 2: Are you trying to say that you were in Paradigm City and you took R. Dorothy Wayneright?
Dorothy: ** Suddenly appears. ** I'm Dorothy Perez now.
Tony: ** Smiling. ** Hi darling. ** Kisses her. ** Are you ready to go?

** Co-workers stare in disbelief. **

Co-worker 1: What the hell?
Co-worker 2: If you’re here, Dorothy, where is Roger? With Angel? **He has an unhappy look**
Dorothy: No, Norman told me that she’s engaged to Dan Dastun now. I really don't know what he’s up to lately.
Tony: Does it matter? See you guys later!

** Tony and Dorothy walk hand in hand out of the building. **

Not surprising, but still unexpected!

*claps*

YAY!!! Good guy won!

very very nice. interesting making Roger the "bad" guy. *two big thumbs up*

A CLOCKWORK TOMATO: [Enters stage left. Looks to the left, looks to the right. No one is around. Tiptoes over to the fanfic. Lifts the character of Tony bodily out of the script.]

TONY'S VOICE: [Muffled] Hey! What are you doing?

A CLOCKWORK TOMATO: I've got a job for you in another fanfic.

TONY'S VOICE: Does it have Dorothy in it?

A CLOCKWORK TOMATO: Play your cards right and you'll hold her hand on the first date.

TONY'S VOICE: What about the second date?

A CLOCKWORK TOMATO: [Starts to put Tony back.]

TONY'S VOICE: Okay! Okay! Count me in!

A CLOCKWORK TOMATO: [Sneaks across the stage. Exit stage right.]

TONY'S VOICE: What about the second date?

A CLOCKWORK TOMATO: [Starts to put Tony back.]

TONY'S VOICE: Okay! Okay! Count me in!

A CLOCKWORK TOMATO: [Sneaks across the stage. Exit stage right.]

Borrowed from ACT.

** Mean while, back at the DLT Software Company... **

...
Roger: ** Disbelieving ** I thought the good guy was supposed to get the girl…
Dorothy: He did!

** Dorothy and Roger notices that Tony disappeared and reappeared rapidly. **

Tony: ** Puzzled, looking around. ** Sorry guys, had to talk to Tomato. ** Looks at Dorothy ** He says, "Hey"
Roger: Do you mind? Focus here!
Dorothy: ** Smiles and waves. ** Hi Tomato.
Roger: This is so unprofessional.
Dorothy: Well, you have fangirls too. If you took the time to say hi...
Tony: ** Interrupts Dorothy and blushing. ** Sorry, shall we continue.

** Tony grabs Dorothy by the hand. **

Tony: Come on, it’s past lunchtime already! Thanks for coming by, Roger. We'll send you an invitation.
Dorothy: ** Smiling. ** I'd appreciate it if you would talk to Norman about it. I hope we see you soon! ** She and Tony leave Roger standing there alone in the office.
Roger: ** Completely shocked. ** Wait, it’s not supposed to end this way!

...

Just recently found these boards and encountered this thread while looking around. Got to say I found the story quite good, surprising since it's a Mary Sue.

Poor Roger. I'm on the fence about the whole R/D thing, but to not even get Angel. Oh well, c'est le vie. At least now he can concentrate on the one thing left in his life that matters, finding out The Truth.

Hmmm, this looks like the opening for a sequel. Not revisiting Tony and Dorothy of course. They've got a happy ending. But maybe a follow up on how Dorothyless Roger Smith carries on. I'm picturing a descent into an almost Schwarzwaldian obsession with The Truth and what's behind all the mysteries he's encountered.

Oh, he wouldn't become a monster like Swarzwald but without distrtactions like Dorothy he'd take a more ruthless and proactive stance and delve deep into things rather than wait for the next robot to attack. Also, while he wouldn't deliberately try to be murderous like Swarzwald, he wouldn't give a damn about taking time out to save individuals because he's focused solely on the big picture. And of course, he might be driven to taking actions which could be self-destructive, since now the only thing important is the search for The Truth.

I see him becoming colder. No rule about lovely young women getting in without explanation. No interest in flirting or making time with the ladies. Just unemotional professionalism and ruthless efficiency. He might even resort to using guns. Soured on love and relationships, he devotes himself soley to his work, becoming almost as robotic as Dorothy used to be.

Just idle musings.

A sequel is in the works. However, the happy ending on the "A Stroll with Dorothy" is not all that happy, as you will see in the sequel, "The Experiment". Oh well, I don't want to give the story away this early in the game.

Can't wait to see the sequel. BTW, where in the series does this take place and things begin to diverge from continuity?